New York lawmakers have introduced a new bill, S.B. 5081, to strengthen safety measures for warehouse workers. This bill builds upon the existing Warehouse Worker Protection Act (S.B. 8922) that was passed in December 2022. The new bill requires companies with workers engaged in manual materials handling tasks to develop an injury reduction plan to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders such as tendonitis, arthritis, sprains, and strains.
This plan includes hiring a certified ergonomist to evaluate the worksite and gather input from workers. An ergonomist is a professional who studies, designs, and evaluates human work systems with the goal of optimizing the performance and safety of those systems. The bill also includes protections against retaliation to protect any worker who reports any issues. Furthermore, employers must promptly address any risk factors that have caused or could potentially cause musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.
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If this bill that requires safety initiatives for warehouse workers to pass, a professional employer organization (PEO) like GMS can assist small business owners in a variety of ways. Our experts help you navigate complex employment laws and regulations. We will help you understand the requirements of this bill and ensure compliance with its provisions, including developing and implementing the necessary safety initiatives and injury reduction plans.
In addition, our safety experts can conduct comprehensive risk assessments of the workplace to identify potential hazards and areas of non-compliance and implement measures to mitigate them effectively. Ultimately, we’re here to provide ongoing HR support to small business owners. We help you stay updated on any changes to laws or regulations, provide guidance on best practices for maintaining a safe workplace, and assist with resolving any safety-related issues that may arise. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business thrive.